How Seniors Can Stay Mentally Sharp

If you are becoming more forgetful than usual, it’s probably because your mind is losing its sharpness. This might be a sign of memory problems such as dementia. In this case, availing caregiver services in Chicago or wherever you are located may be best. However, in some instances, this is just a sign of aging.

As a person grows older, the brain shrinks and the brain cells, as well as the neurons, don’t work as well anymore or degrade and lose connections with the other cells. The blood flow to the brain also slows down as a person ages and this is what leads to lapses in memory or forgetfulness. If a family member is experiencing memory loss, you should encourage them to consult with a doctor immediately.

Meanwhile, to prevent this from happening to you, you should take steps to keep your mind sharp as you age. It is actually easier than you think, just follow these tips!

KEEP HEALTHY

Always watch what you eat and keep your cholesterol down. It’s also a very good thing that you keep your blood pressure and blood sugar down to normal levels. Otherwise, you might encounter health problems such as heart attacks and strokes. This also means that you should quit smoking and drink moderately. Exercising regularly will also help you stay healthy and keep your mind sharp.

LEARN NEW THINGS

Doesn’t matter what it is, you can learn how to play a new instrument, study a new language, or maybe start a new art project ‘ anything that can stimulate your brain. Driving through new routes and going out and doing errands are things that will keep you on your toes, too. If you enjoy reading, then keep reading! Who knows, maybe you’ll end up reading through your entire unread library and even learn a few new words.

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN

This is one thing that you can do to keep your brain doing what it should always be doing: thinking. Try out challenges, like sudoku and other brain games.

SOCIALIZE

Keeping in contact with your family or friends, making new friends at your local community center, and getting to know your neighbors can keep your brain working! People who are more engaged with other people have shown that they’re at less risk of developing dementia.

GO OUT AND SEE SIGHTS

It’s time for you to go to the places you’ve always wanted to go to but never had the chance to visit. See some new sights and enjoy your retirement. When you get home, write all about what you’ve seen and done, and reflect on what you’ve learned. These are good exercises that would keep your memory sharp and help you remember important moments. If you want, you can also talk about it with your family and friends, keeping you socially engaged.

EXERCISE

This has been mentioned in the first bullet; however, what you should know is that exercise doesn’t only make your body move so that it remains healthy, but it also raises brain activity and function, leading to the increase in the number of brain cells! You don’t have to do it every day, but a fifteen to thirty minute session three times a week can do the trick. And since exercising leads to brain activity, it can lessen the risk of developing Alzheimer’s which can lead to dementia.

Embrace your age and maturity! As you age, make sure to follow the tips above to keep your memory sharp and avoid memory problems in the future.

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